Publisher's note:

One of John Angell James’ earliest published works, showing the concern which gripped him for the reaching of young souls. Sunday Schools at that time provided basic education as well as introducing children to the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ. James consistently shows that the greater spiritual objective must always take precedence. He sets out the duties, encouragements and hindrances for Sunday School teachers and insists that this calling requires spiritual preparation of heart. He urges pastors also to take a special interest in this work.

James also wrote a brief sketch of the life of a Sunday School teacher called Elizabeth Bales which has also been included. She had disabilities which could have prevented her from doing this work but she committed her life to her class and the distribution of tracts in her locality.